"Un ser humano no es un recurso, un ser humano es una posibilidad. Es una posibilidad que necesita ser aprovechada."

The core idea behind the quote is that every person shouldn’t just be viewed as a tool or a means to an end, but as someone with potential that can be tapped into and developed. Instead of seeing people as resources or commodities, we should recognize and nurture the unique possibilities within each individual.

Historically, this sentiment arises from a pushback against increasingly mechanistic views of work and productivity. In many traditional business models, employees were often regarded similarly to machines—valued primarily for the immediate output they could produce. Over time, however, forward-thinking leaders and organizations began to understand that such a limited view diminishes the true value of human contributions. When people are seen merely as resources, their creativity, passion, and potential are stifled.

Take Google, for example. Google is known for its innovative and people-centric workplace culture. They don’t just hire talented individuals and put them to work; they invest in their growth, encourage creativity, and give them the freedom to explore new ideas. Google’s famous “20% time” policy allowed employees to spend 20% of their work hours on projects they were passionate about. This policy led to the development of some of Google’s most successful products, like Gmail. By seeing its workers as possibilities rather than mere resources, Google harnessed the creative potential of its team to achieve remarkable results.

So, how can you apply this idea in your own life or organization? Start by shifting your mindset. If you’re a leader or manager, aim to understand the strengths, passions, and interests of your team members. Encourage them to pursue projects that align with their skills and interests. Provide opportunities for professional development and create an environment where creativity and innovation are celebrated. Remember, people are more motivated and productive when they feel valued and see opportunities for growth.

Imagine you’re managing a small team at work. Instead of assigning tasks solely based on job titles, take time to talk with each team member about their interests and goals. Let’s say you discover that one of your team members, who usually handles data entry, is passionate about graphic design. Give them a chance to work on a small design project. You might be surprised by the results. Not only will they feel more engaged and appreciated, but you’ll also be tapping into a talent that could benefit the entire team.

Let’s tell a story to bring this home. Picture a young woman named Sarah, who starts working at a marketing firm. Initially, her boss assigns her routine tasks, treating her like a cog in the machine. But one day, during a casual conversation, Sarah mentions her love for storytelling and her experience in video production. Her boss, inspired by this revelation, encourages her to create a short video campaign for a client. The project is a huge success, leading to increased engagement and new business for the firm. Sarah’s boss realizes the value of seeing her as more than just a resource. By recognizing and harnessing her potential, the entire team benefits.

In essence, by viewing individuals as possibilities rather than mere resources, you open the door to innovation, engagement, and growth. So, whether you’re leading a team or considering your own career, remember the power of nurturing human potential. It can make all the difference.